Athena Inn

This hotel is widely recognized for its exceptional showers, often described as a signature feature, offering a spa-like experience with multiple spray options. Guests frequently highlight the value for money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and road trippers seeking a comfortable overnight stop. The rooms are generally perceived as modern and renovated, providing a pleasant surprise despite the exterior appearance. It is a suitable choice for families and couples looking for an affordable and clean place to rest during their journeys. To ensure a smooth stay, guests should be prepared for an early check-out time and be aware of the security deposit requirement upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's most celebrated feature is its showers, which guests consistently praise as amazing, spa-like, and ultra-modern, often featuring multiple spray heads and waterfall options. Rooms are well-equipped with practical amenities such as a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, enhancing convenience for guests. A large TV with numerous channels is typically available, though some guests noted issues with smart TV functionality or non-working USB ports. Free Wi-Fi is provided and generally receives positive feedback for its speed. While parking is available and often described as easy and well-lit, some guests found the lot to be tight, especially for larger vehicles.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Most guests report the rooms to be clean, spotless, and well-maintained, appreciating the modern renovations and spacious layouts. However, a significant number of reviews mention issues such as stained sheets and towels, hair in the shower, mold in bathrooms, and even reports of bugs (roaches or bed bugs). While many find the beds comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, some guests experienced them as too firm, springy, or having a noticeable dip. Noise levels also vary, with some guests enjoying a quiet stay, while others were disturbed by thin walls, road noise, or sounds from neighboring rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, which is consistently described by guests as basic, minimal, or limited. The options typically include cereal, muffins, coffee, and fruit like apples, along with packaged donuts and granola bars. Many guests express disappointment with the quality, citing issues such as bad coffee, warm orange juice, or a general lack of variety. There are no hot food items such as eggs, bacon, or waffles, which some guests expected based on online descriptions. While it serves as a quick grab-and-go option before hitting the road, it generally does not meet expectations for a substantial breakfast experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, situated just off the interstate and providing easy access to numerous restaurants, shopping centers, and a nearby mall. This makes it a practical stop for travelers. However, guest perceptions of the immediate surrounding area are mixed. While some find it safe and suitable for their needs, a notable number describe the neighborhood as sketchy, mentioning the presence of an abandoned gas station and homeless individuals, which can make some guests feel uneasy. Despite these concerns, the hotel itself is often seen as a secure and accessible base for exploring the local area or continuing a journey.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with staff and service are highly varied. Many reviews praise the staff as friendly, helpful, and attentive, contributing to a positive stay. However, a significant portion of feedback highlights negative interactions, describing some staff members as rude, unwelcoming, disorganized, or even hostile, particularly during the check-in process. Issues such as unexpected security deposits, early check-out times, and perceived lack of empathy for guest concerns are frequently mentioned. Housekeeping service is inconsistent, with some guests noting a lack of daily cleaning or loud cleaning activities in the mornings. Overall, while some guests receive excellent service, others encounter challenging and unpleasant interactions.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest feedback is the security deposit, typically $100, which can be unexpected or lead to issues with refunds. The hotel maintains a strict no locals policy, denying reservations to individuals residing within a certain radius or from specific nearby states, which has caused significant frustration for some potential guests. The check-out time of 10 AM is frequently cited as inconvenient and early. Despite these points, the hotel is consistently praised for its value, offering affordable rates for its accommodations. It also has a pet-friendly policy, generally welcoming animals for a reasonable fee, though some guests reported negative staff attitudes regarding pets.